“The toughest possible game”

Ole Werner in the press conference prior to the Bundesliga opener against FC Bayern

Ole Werner talking into a microphone.
Ole Werner responds to journalists' questions ahead of the game vs. FC Bayern.
First Team
Thursday, 17.08.2023 / 16:00

The 61st season of the Bundesliga will kick off on Friday 18th August at 20:30 CEST against FC Bayern Munich. The reigning champions from Bavaria have likely eliminated their supposed weakness from last season with the arrival of Harry Kane. Ole Werner revealed in the pre-match press conference that he won’t adapt his team’s preparations around the world-renowned striker more than he would for any other player. Despite being very aware of Bayern’s strengths, the head coach of the Green-Whites is optimistic about the coming fixture and believes his team are up to the challenge.

Following the disappointing exit from the DFB-Pokal, in which, despite being the favourites, Werder fell short, it was naturally a priority to conduct a detailed match analysis of the game last week. Werner blames the first ten minutes in particular for the defeat, claiming that his team were totally out of the game. “After this, we evaluated moments where things were going well, and moments where we fell short and should improve upon.”

The team made the decision to not dwell too much on the first game of the season so that they could direct their focus onto the upcoming Bundesliga fixture. “It was only the first game of the season – no one should be losing sleep over it. We’re only just getting started”, reported Werner. Mental preparation for Friday’s match was just as important as the hard work on the training pitch following the difficult defeat. “It’s important that you believe in your strengths as a team.” This will be pivotal in helping Werder win in their first league game of the season.

“We have to be relentless”

Ole Werner leans on a figure at training.
Ole Werner is looking forward to the Bundesliga opener.

Werner isn’t concerned that his team will take on the title holders in their first match of the Bundesliga. It’s “neither an advantage nor a disadvantage” to face Bayern first out of all the teams. The head coach is, however, fully aware of the strengths of the opposition. “It’s thetoughest possible game we could have, but we have to rise to the challenge.” The 34-year-old has devised a clear match plan: “We are clearly the underdogs, so have to work hard out of possession, stay compact and be relentless, and defend well. It’s vital that we take the chances we get and keep the opposition busy.” The success of the match plan will only become apparent after the final whistle is blown on Friday evening. Ole Werner is feeling more anticipation than excitement: “It will be a special game. The first Bundesliga match always has a certain charm.”

 

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